Experience the incredible biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Amazon on this extension, featuring a stay at your choice of two unforgettable rainforest lodges.
Sandwiched between two nights in Quito, spend two unforgettable days immersed in the extraordinary landscapes of Ecuador’s rainforest. Accompanied by local guides, you explore this remarkable wilderness on foot, by canoe and from above the rainforest canopy, seeking out colourful macaws and toucans, charismatic monkeys, giant otter, caiman, and an astonishing diversity of other wildlife.
From witnessing the spectacle of parrots gathering at clay licks to venturing through pristine rainforest and experiencing the jungle after dark on a guided night walk, each excursion reveals a different side of this extraordinary ecosystem, while a chance to experience the local culture adds a fascinating dimension to your adventure. Whichever lodge you choose, this is an immersive and memorable introduction to one of the world's most biodiverse destinations.
Typical Extension Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrive in Quito
Today, arrive in Quito and transfer to your comfortable hotel in the city. The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish.
Accommodation: La Casona de la Ronda Hotel, 1-night
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Day 2:
Transfer to the Ecuadorian Amazon
This morning, fly from Quito to Coca in eastern Ecuador, where you're met on arrival and transferred to your chosen accommodation.
Depending on which lodge you stay at, you may have time to head out this afternoon and begin exploring the beautiful Ecuadorian Amazon on foot or by boat, where you should begin to see the vibrant wildlife of the region, including playful monkeys and a spectacular array of colourful birds.
Accommodation: Napo Wildlife Centre or Sacha Jungle Lodge, 3-nights
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Days 3-4
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Explore the Jungle on Guided Excursions & Activities
Your next two full days offer a chance to explore the extraordinary biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Amazon through a variety of guided excursions, with activities varying depending on your chosen lodge. Early mornings are the best time for wildlife sightings, with opportunities to visit colourful parrot clay licks, where parrots, parakeets and macaws gather in spectacular numbers, and perhaps climb a canopy walkway or observation tower for sweeping views above the rainforest.
Accompanied by naturalist guides, you enjoy leisurely walks through pristine Terra Firme forest, observing elusive golden-mantled tamarin monkey, toucan and countless other species. Canoe excursions along creeks, lakes and streams offer another perspective on the rainforest, with opportunities to spot giant otter, caiman, and an incredible variety of birdlife.
Depending on your chosen lodge, you may also visit a local Indigenous community or interpretation centre, learning about traditional Amazonian life, culture and cuisine. There's also time to relax back at the lodge between excursions, soaking up the sounds and scenery of the surrounding rainforest.
As evening falls, the jungle takes on a completely different character. Guided night walks reveal the Amazon's fascinating nocturnal world, where frogs, insects, reptiles, owls, and possibly even elusive nocturnal monkeys emerge under the cover of darkness.
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Day 5:
Return to Quito
Today, you’re transferred back to Coca Airport and fly to Quito. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure and should offer some time to explore Quito at your own pace.
Accommodation: La Casona de la Ronda Hotel, 1-night
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Day 6:
Continue your Onward Travel
After breakfast at your hotel, you continue your onward travel arrangements.
